Turkmenistan entry requirements for Laos passport holders
Checked daily · Updated May 26, 2026·View sources
Visa required
Max stay
No fixed limit
Passport validity
6 months
Beyond entry date
Return ticket
Required
Or onward travel proof
Proof of funds
Recommended
May be checked
Laos passport holders need a visa to enter Turkmenistan. You must arrange this before you travel — there is no visa on arrival for Lao citizens. Plan ahead, as the application process can take several weeks.
Entry requirements
| Requirement | Details | Status |
|---|---|---|
| Visa required Apply before travel | You need a visa to enter Turkmenistan. Apply through the Ministry of Foreign Affairs portal at mfa.gov.tm — the process takes several weeks and requires an invitation letter from a Turkmen host or tour operator. Start the application at least 6 weeks before your trip.Apply for visa | Required |
| Valid passport Must be valid for intended stay | Your passport must be valid for the entire duration of your stay in Turkmenistan. Airlines check this at check-in — if your passport expires before you leave, you will be denied boarding. | Required |
| Return or onward ticket Required for entry | Immigration officers at Ashgabat International Airport ask to see a confirmed onward ticket before granting entry. Have a printed copy or a digital version on your phone ready. | Required |
| Proof of accommodation Recommended to carry | Border officials may ask for a hotel booking or a letter of invitation from your host. Keep a printed confirmation or a digital copy accessible. | Recommended |
| Proof of funds Recommended to carry | Immigration can request evidence you have enough money for your stay. Carry cash in US dollars (the local currency is not convertible) or a bank statement showing sufficient funds. | Recommended |
Visa required — no exceptions
There is no visa on arrival or e-visa for Lao passport holders. You must get a visa from a Turkmen embassy before you fly. Plan for 2–4 weeks processing time.
What happens at the border
1
Apply for a visa at a Turkmen embassy
Contact the nearest Turkmen embassy or consulate (e.g., in Hanoi, Beijing, or Moscow). Submit your application, passport photos, and any required documents. Processing takes 2–4 weeks.
2
Receive your visa approval
Once approved, you'll get a visa letter or stamp. Keep a printed copy with your passport.
3
Book flights and accommodation
Book a return ticket and your first night's hotel. Have confirmations ready to show at immigration.
4
Arrive at Ashgabat International Airport
Present your passport, visa, and supporting documents at passport control. The officer may ask about your itinerary and accommodation.
5
Collect your luggage and exit
After clearing immigration, collect your bags and proceed through customs. Keep your documents handy.
Download Turkmenistan Entry Checklist
PDF · Laos Passport · Includes QR codes · Updated May 26, 2026
Staying longer & fees
Visa options if you want to stay beyond the free limit:
Tourist visa single entry
Max stay30 days, extendable 30 days
Validity3 months from issue date
Cost$35 USD (approx. 3,500 LAK)
Requires invitation letter from a Turkmen host or hotel.
Tourist visa multiple entry
Max stay30 days per entry, extendable 30 days
Validity6 months from issue date
Cost$50 USD (approx. 5,000 LAK)
Suitable for frequent travelers; same invitation requirement.
Business visa
Max stay90 days, extendable 30 days
Validity6 months from issue date
Cost$80 USD (approx. 8,000 LAK)
Requires invitation from a Turkmen company and registration.
Other fees
| Service | Cost |
|---|---|
| Tourist visa (single entry)Standard fee for a single-entry tourist visa. | $35 USD (approx. 3,500 LAK) |
| Tourist visa (multiple entry)For multiple entries within the visa validity. | $50 USD (approx. 5,000 LAK) |
| Overstay fine per dayNo maximum cap specified; avoid overstaying. | $10 USD per day (approx. 1,000 LAK) |
Common reasons for entry denial
Insufficient funds30%
No return ticket25%
Incomplete application20%
Approval probability calculator
Answer 6 quick questions — we'll estimate how likely you are to be approved for entry based on typical immigration patterns.
Transiting through Turkmenistan
Transit visa required
Laos passport holders need a transit visa to change planes in Turkmenistan, even if staying airside.
Transit hubsAshgabat International Airport (ASB)
Health & vaccines for Turkmenistan
Required for entry
Yellow FeverRequired if arriving from a country with yellow fever transmission.
Recommended vaccines
Hepatitis AEssentialTyphoidRecommendedRoutine vaccines (MMR, DTP, polio)Essential
Health risks
Food and waterborne diseasesModerate risk
Risk of hepatitis A, typhoid, and traveler's diarrhea from contaminated food/water.
Mosquito-borne diseasesLow risk
Low risk of malaria and dengue; use repellent in rural areas.
Malaria risk: low
Malaria risk is low but present in rural areas; prophylaxis not routinely recommended.
Based on CDC and WHO guidance. Consult a travel medicine clinic 4–6 weeks before departure for personalised advice.
Immigration offices for extensions
Ashgabat
State Migration Service of Turkmenistan
1939 Street, Ashgabat
Mon–Fri 09:00–18:00
Main office for visa extensions and registration. Bring passport, visa, and invitation letter.
Turkmenbashi
Turkmenbashi City Migration Office
Balkan Avenue, Turkmenbashi
Mon–Fri 09:00–17:00
Handles extensions for visitors in the Balkan region.
Practical information for LA travellers
Country basics
CapitalAshgabat
LanguageTurkmen
Driving sideRight-hand traffic
US driving licenceUS visitors can drive with a valid US license for up to 30 days, but an International Driving Permit is recommended.
Money
CurrencyTurkmenistan manat (TMT)
Exchange rate
1 USD = 3.5 TMT
Time zone
Local timeUTC+5
vs New York+10h
vs Los Angeles+13h
Electricity
Voltage220V / 50Hz
Plug types
C,FTypes C and F, standard European plugs
⚠ US adapter needed
Water & health
Tap water
Not safe — use bottled
Tap water is not safe to drink; use bottled or boiled water.
Emergency numbers
Frequently asked questions
No. There is no visa on arrival for Lao citizens. You must obtain a visa from a Turkmen embassy before you travel.
Processing usually takes 2–4 weeks. Apply well in advance of your planned travel date.
Typically: a completed application form, passport-sized photos, a copy of your passport (valid 6+ months), a return flight booking, and a hotel reservation or invitation letter. Check with the specific embassy for exact requirements.
Visa fees vary by embassy and visa type. Expect to pay around $50–$100 USD. Contact the embassy for the current fee.
Some embassies require an invitation letter from a Turkmen host or tour operator. Check with the embassy where you apply.
Extensions are not available for this visa type. You must leave before your visa expires.
Overstaying can result in fines, detention, or deportation. Always exit before your visa expiry date.
Official sources
Always verify before you travel
Entry requirements change. This page was verified on May 26, 2026. Always check the official embassy or government source before booking. Report an error — we update within 24 hours.